WASHINGTON – Democratic Sen. Max Baucus of Montana moved one step closer to becoming the next ambassador to China on Tuesday with a committee vote approving his nomination.

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved the nomination by voice vote, along with six other administration nominees. There were no objections.

“I’m not surprised, considering his experience and relationships in the Senate,” the committee’s chairman, Democratic Sen. Robert Menendez of New Jersey, said.

Menendez said a full Senate vote could come as early as Thursday.

Baucus had appeared before Menendez’s committee a week ago.

His nomination, which came in late December, was expected to sail through the Senate without much trouble.

Baucus, who has handled numerous free-trade issues as chairman of the powerful Senate Finance Committee, told senators at his confirmation hearing last week that he would “be fair but firm” in his dealings with China.

He said he hoped to “partner with China as it emerges as a global power and encourage it to act responsibly in resolving international disputes, respecting human rights and protecting the environment.”

Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona had said during the hearing that he was “concerned” about some of Baucus’ answers, warning Baucus to be skeptical in dealing with China’s leaders.

After the unanimous committee vote Tuesday, McCain said he supports Baucus’ nomination.

“Senator Baucus and I have known each other for 30 years,” McCain said. “I don’t see any problem with his nomination. I think he’ll do fine.”

Baucus is widely expected to receive a favorable vote in the full Senate as well.

The timing of that vote was not yet known.

Baucus had said even before President Barack Obama nominated him for the ambassadorship that he would not run for re-election next year.

If he’s confirmed, Democratic Montana Gov. Steve Bullock would appoint a replacement who would serve in the Senate until Baucus’ term expires in January 2015.

If confirmed, Baucus would replace outgoing ambassador Gary Locke, who is stepping down for personal reasons.